How to Size Dehums w/ Tim De Stasio

In this episode of the HVAC School podcast, host Bryan Orr interviews Tim De Stasio, an experienced HVAC practitioner and consultant. Tim shares his journey in the HVAC industry, from his early days in vocational school to running his own contracting business for 12 years. He now focuses on consulting, design, and contractor training, allowing him to pursue his passion for HVAC while sharing his knowledge with others.

The conversation delves deep into the world of dehumidifiers, exploring their importance in modern HVAC systems, especially in humid climates. Tim emphasizes the need for supplementary dehumidification in many homes, particularly during part-load conditions when air conditioning systems may not effectively control humidity. He explains the process of selecting and sizing dehumidifiers, stressing the importance of considering factors such as peak latent load conditions, actual dehumidifier performance under real-world conditions, and static pressure effects on output capacity.

The discussion also covers the critical role of proper envelope sealing and ductwork in managing humidity. Tim advocates for addressing these issues before installing a dehumidifier, highlighting the importance of blower door testing and fixing any leaks. The podcast concludes with insights on dehumidifier control strategies, the limitations of ERVs in humidity control, and the potential risks associated with uncontrolled outdoor air introduction into HVAC systems.

Key topics covered in the podcast:

• Tim De Stasio's background and transition to HVAC consulting and training
• The importance of supplementary dehumidification in various climates
• Selecting and sizing dehumidifiers based on peak latent load and real-world performance
• The impact of static pressure on dehumidifier output capacity
• The necessity of addressing envelope and ductwork issues before installing dehumidifiers
• Strategies for controlling dehumidifiers in conjunction with AC systems
• Myths about dehumidification, including misconceptions about variable speed equipment and ERVs
• The potential risks of uncontrolled outdoor air introduction and the importance of proper ventilation strategies
• Resources for learning more about dehumidification and HVAC best practices

 

Contact Tim at timdestasiohvac@gmail.com or follow him on LinkedIn HERE. You can also follow David Schurk on LinkedIn HERE.

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